Intel Celeron G1820T
Intel Celeron G1820T: A Budget Processor for Basic Tasks in 2025
Introduction
Even a decade after its release, Intel's Celeron G1820T processors continue to find applications in ultra-budget builds. This chip, built on the Haswell architecture, may seem archaic today, but its low cost and minimal power consumption make it an interesting option for specific scenarios. In this article, we will explore who should consider this processor in 2025, how to properly integrate it into a system, and what results to expect.
Key Specifications: Architecture and Performance
Haswell Architecture and 22nm Process
The Celeron G1820T debuted in 2014 using the Haswell microarchitecture. It is a 22nm processor with two cores, two threads, and a base clock speed of 2.4 GHz (with no turbo boost). It features a 3 MB L3 cache, which is typical for budget models of that time.
Key Features:
- Integrated Intel HD graphics (Haswell) with a base frequency of 200 MHz and dynamic boosting up to 1.05 GHz.
- TDP of 54W: The processor is suitable for passive cooling systems.
- Support for SSE4.1/4.2 instructions, but lacks AVX2 and other modern extensions.
Performance:
According to Geekbench 6 (2025):
- Single-Core: 339 points.
- Multi-Core: 417 points.
For comparison, the modern budget processor Intel N100 (2023) scores around ~1100/2200 points. The Celeron G1820T even lags behind the Raspberry Pi 5 (GB6 Single-Core ~450).
Compatible Motherboards: Sockets and Chipsets
LGA 1150 Socket
The processor uses the LGA 1150 socket, supported by Intel's 8th and 9th generation chipsets:
- H81, B85, H87, H97 — optimal choices.
- Z87/Z97 — excessive for the Celeron but compatible.
Selection Considerations in 2025:
- New LGA 1150 motherboards are no longer produced. Prices for refurbished models start at $30-50 (for instance, ASRock H81M-DGS R2.0).
- Check the CPU support in the BIOS — some motherboards require a firmware update.
- It is recommended to look for models with HDMI/DVI for using integrated graphics.
Supported Memory Types
DDR3L-1333/1600
The Celeron G1820T only works with DDR3 memory. The maximum capacity is 32 GB (theoretically), but most LGA 1150 motherboards are limited to 16 GB.
Recommendations:
- Use dual-channel kits (2×4 GB DDR3-1600) for a slight performance boost.
- The price for a new 8 GB DDR3 module is $25-35 (brands like Kingston or Crucial).
Power Supplies: Calculation and Recommendations
Minimum Requirements
With a TDP of 54W and no discrete graphics card, a power supply of 300-400W is sufficient.
Examples of Reliable Models:
- be quiet! Pure Power 11 400W ($60) — quiet and efficient.
- Corsair CX450 ($55) — optimal price-performance ratio.
Tip: Don’t skimp on the power supply! Even for a modest build, a quality unit will protect components from voltage spikes.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Celeron G1820T
Strengths
- Price: The processor can be found for $15-25 (new units in stock).
- Energy Efficiency: Ideal for media centers or NAS.
- Integrated Graphics: Supports 4K output via HDMI (but only at 24Hz).
Weaknesses
- Performance: Struggles with even the Chrome browser with 10+ tabs open.
- Outdated Platform: No support for NVMe, USB 3.1, or Wi-Fi 6.
- Upgrade Potential: The maximum for LGA 1150 is the Core i7-4790K (2014), which is also outdated.
Use Cases
1. Office Tasks
- Word, Excel, PDF: The processor can manage, but there will be lags when multiple applications are used simultaneously.
- Example: An office build based on G1820T + 240 GB SSD + 8 GB DDR3 will cost around $150-200.
2. Media Center
- Video: Streaming 1080p (YouTube, Netflix) works. 4K can only be achieved through third-party players with hardware acceleration (like Kodi).
3. Educational Projects
- Linux Server: Suitable for learning purposes (web server, databases).
Comparison with Competitors
AMD A4-6300 (2013)
- Pros: Better graphics (Radeon HD 8370D).
- Cons: Higher TDP (65W), poorer single-core performance.
Intel Pentium G3420 (2014)
- Price: $30-40.
- Advantages: Clock speed of 3.2 GHz (+33% in performance).
Conclusion: The Celeron G1820T is outperformed by even older Pentium models but wins on price.
Practical Assembly Tips
1. SSD is essential: Install at least a 120 GB SATA SSD (e.g., Kingston A400 for $20) — this will eliminate "lag" in everyday tasks.
2. Cooling: The stock cooler is sufficient, but for quieter operation, consider the Arctic Alpine 11 GT ($15).
3. Upgrade: Consider replacing it with a used Core i5-4570 ($25) for a notable performance increase.
Final Verdict: Who is the Celeron G1820T For?
This processor should be considered only in two cases:
1. Ultra-budget builds for basic tasks (text editing, video watching).
2. Replacement for a burned-out CPU in an old PC without changing the motherboard.
Alternatives in 2025:
- Mini-PC based on Intel N100 ($150) — three times faster, supports DDR5, HDMI 2.0.
- Used business PCs (e.g., Dell OptiPlex 3050 with i5-7500) — $100-120.
The Celeron G1820T is a relic of the past, but its price and minimalism can be justified in niche projects.